[0001] The subject matter herein relates generally to image acquisition, and more specifically,
to a method and arrangement to assist image acquisition of a subject. Although the
foregoing description refers to medical imaging, the system is also applicable to
industrial imaging.
[0002] Medical imaging systems encompass a variety of imaging modalities, such as x-ray
systems, computerized tomography (CT) systems, and the like. Medical imaging systems
generate images of an object, such as a patient, for example, through exposure to
an energy source, such as x-rays passing through a patient. The generated images may
be used for many purposes. For instance, internal defects in an object may be detected.
Additionally, changes in internal structure or alignment may be determined. Fluid
flow within an object may also be represented. Furthermore, the image may show the
presence or absence of objects in the patient. The information gained from medical
diagnostic imaging has applications in many fields, including medicine and manufacturing.
[0003] DE 10 2005 052784 discloses a vehicle for positioning a mobile X-ray diagnostic device.
[0004] DE 42 24 614 relates to a mobile X-ray diagnostic unit having an adjustable height.
[0005] WO 93/16633 describes a device for vacuum attachment of an object to a surface such as the skin
of a patient.
[0006] A certain conventional medical imaging system includes a mobile C-arm system. The
mobile C-arm system can be used for general surgery, vascular procedures, and cardiac
procedures, for example. The conventional mobile C-arm system is equipped with a radiological
source or transmitter in opposed relation to a radiological detector (e.g., an image
intensifier), and both are moved in relation to the imaged subject. With the subject
positioned between the radiological source and detector, the C-arm system is moved
and rotated so as to pass radiation through the imaged subject from various directions.
As the radiation passes through the subject, anatomical structures cause variable
attenuation of the radiation passing through the imaged subject and received at the
detector. The detector translates the attenuated radiation into an image employed
in diagnostic evaluations. In typical medical procedures around such imaging systems,
multiple physicians, nurses, and technicians are located in close proximity to the
imaged subject.
[0007] There is a need for a mobile imaging system that can be readily and automatically
located in arbitrary positions in a crowded work environment. The above-mentioned
needs are addressed by the embodiments described herein in the following description.
[0008] Various aspects and embodiments of the present invention, as defined in the appended
claims, are thus provided.
[0009] Systems, methods, and computer program products of varying scope are described herein.
In addition to the aspects and advantages described in this summary, further aspects
and advantages will become apparent by reference to the drawings and with reference
to the detailed description that follows.
Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a mobile imaging system of the
subject matter described herein.
Fig. 2 shows a detailed schematic diagram of an embodiment of a brake system to selectively
restrain movement of the mobile platform assembly and imaging system of Fig 1, the
brake system in a stand-by or retracted state.
Fig. 3 shows a detailed schematic diagram of an embodiment of a brake system to selectively
restrain movement of the mobile platform assembly and imaging system of Fig 1, the
brake system in restraint of movement or clamped state of the mobile device and imaging
system of Fig. 1.
Fig. 4 shows a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of navigating the
mobile device in combination with the imaging system of Fig. 1.
Fig. 5 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of the mobile carriage system of Fig.
1 in management of transport and restraint of the imaging system of Fig. 1.
Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of an imaging system supported on a mobile device
in combination with a braking system in accordance with the subject matter described
herein, the braking system in a release state.
Fig. 7 illustrates an embodiment of an imaging system supported on a mobile device
in combination with a braking system in accordance with the subject matter described
herein, the braking system in a restraint state.
Fig. 8 illustrates another embodiment of an imaging system supported on a mobile device
in combination with a braking system in accordance with the subject matter described
herein, the braking system in a release state.
Fig. 9 illustrates a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of operating
the brake system in combination with the mobile imaging system in accordance with
the subject matter described herein.
[0010] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings
that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments,
which may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable
those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, and it is to be understood that
other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical, electrical and other
changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following
detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
[0011] Fig. 1 shows a system 5 to image acquisition of a subject or patient 8 of the subject
matter described herein. An embodiment of the system 5 can include an imaging system
such as an X-ray machine 10 operable to pass X-rays through the subject or patient
8 and then detect and process acquired image data for interpretation. Yet, the type
of imaging system (e.g., computerized tomography (CT), ultrasound (US), electron beam
tomography (EBT), magnetic resonance (MR), fluoroscopic, angiographic, positron electron
emission (PET), etc.) can vary.
[0012] One embodiment of the X-ray machine 10 is a vascular type and located in an examination
room or operating room or hybrid room (represented in the form of a frame referenced
12). The X-ray machine 10 can be operated remotely, for example so that an operator
can be shielded from the radiation. Alternatively, the X-ray machine 10 can be placed
in the examining or operating room 12 so that a health care provider can view acquired
image data while performing a medical procedure on the patient 8.
[0013] The X-ray machine 10 can include a gantry 13 comprising an arm 14 that can rotate
in at least two dimensions of space around the patient 8. The arm 14 can be generally
C-shaped and in support of an X-ray tube 16 which is the X-ray source at one of its
ends and a detector 18 at another of its ends. Yet, the shape of the arm 14 can be
curvilinear, angular, circular or O-shaped, etc. and is not limiting on the subject
matter described herein. Examples of the arm 14 can be C-shaped as manufactured by
GENERAL ELECTRIC® Corporation, the mobile C-shaped arm as manufactured by Ziehm Imaging
Incorporated, and the O-ARM® as manufactured by MEDTRONIC® Inc. The x-ray tube 16
can be generally operable to send an X-ray beam 20 along a direction of emission.
[0014] The detector 18 is hooked to the arm 14 opposite the tube 16 and in the direction
of emission. The X-ray tube 16 and the image detector 18 can be mounted at the opposite
ends of the arm 14 so that the X-rays emitted by the tube 16 can be incidental to
and detected by the detector 18. The detector 18 can be connected to a lift (not shown)
used to raise and lower the detector 18 in the direction of emission.
[0015] For example, during a radiography exposure, the x-ray tube 16 and the detector 18
can be positioned so that when, for example, the patient 8 is interposed between the
X-ray tube 16 and the detector 18, and is irradiated by X-rays, the detector 18 produces
data representing characteristics of the interposed patient 8 that can be conventionally
displayed on a monitor (not shown) and stored electronically.
[0016] An embodiment of the arm 14 can be mounted on a mobile carriage or mobile platform
or mobile device 22 through a support element 24. The support element 24 can be mounted
fixedly on the mobile device 22. The arm 14 can be connected to the support element
24 by a rotating arm 26. The arm 14 can be mounted so as to be sliding relative to
the rotating arm 26. The rotating arm 26 can rotate about an axis passing through
the X-ray beam 20. This rotating assembly of the rotating arm 26 on the support element
24 can enable the X-ray tube 16 and the image detector 18 to move rotationally along
or around the arc-shape of the rotating arm 26. The arm 14, the support element 24,
and the rotating arm 26 can be hinged relative to one another to enable the X-ray
machine 10 to move the x-ray tube 16 and detector 18 in generally three dimensions
to achieve images of the internal organ of the patient 8 to be examined at different
values of incidence. By combining the motion of rotation of the moving parts of the
X-ray machine 10, the X-ray beam 20 can describe all the directions of sending of
the X-rays included within a sphere.
[0017] The embodiment of the mobile device 22 can be generally configured to move the X-ray
machine 10 on the ground. An embodiment of the mobile device 22 can include a wheeled
or roller system 40 operable to move or shift the mobile device 22 in every direction
of the plane represented by the ground, including rotation of the mobile device 22
about a vertical axis passing through the X-ray beam 20. An embodiment of the roller
system 40 comprises at least one motor driven and guide wheel 44 and at least one
free wheel 48. Another example of the roller system 32 may include holonomic wheels.
The type of wheeled or roller system 32 can vary. Fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment
of the mobile device 22 that includes two motor-driven and guide wheels 44 placed
in the rear of the mobile device 22 opposite the arm 14. Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment
of the mobile device 18 that includes two motor-driven and guide wheels 44 placed
toward the front and one free wheel located toward the rear opposite the front. The
number and location of the motor driven and guide wheels 44 or free wheel(s) 48 can
vary.
[0018] The mobile device 22 can also include a drive (e.g., electric, pneumatic, hydraulic,
etc.) 50 operable to move the wheels 44, 48. An embodiment of the drive 50 can include
a direction motor coupled to a driving motor. The connection of the wheels 44, 48
to the drive 50 can be accordingly to that known to those skilled in the art. The
mobile device 22 can be electrically powered in a fashion independent of that of the
X-ray machine 10.
[0019] The x-ray machine 10 can be operated in combination with an examination table or
bed 34 on which the patient 8 reclines. The X-ray machine 10 can be shifted, moved
or positioned in a working mode so that the examination table 34 is placed within
the C-shape of the arm 14 such that the x-ray tube 16 can be located beneath the examination
table 34 and the detector 18 located above the examination table 34 or vice versa
and the patient 8 to be examined positioned in the path of the X-ray beam 20.
[0020] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the X-ray machine 10 can include a control unit 60 to automatically
control the drive 50 to move the wheels 44 of the mobile device 22. An embodiment
of the control unit 60 can include a processor or microprocessor 62 connected to a
bus 64, and a program memory 66 and data memories 68 and 70. The program memory 66
can be divided into several zones or modules, each module corresponding to a function
or a mode of operation or action of the X-ray machine 10. An action can correspond
to the implementation of one or more modules by the processor 62, connected to the
program memory 66 in which the module is stored, of all or part of the instruction
codes forming the module. Actions can be attributed to programs such that the actions
can be executed by the processor 62, where the processor 62 can be controlled by instruction
codes recorded in the program memory 66 of x-ray machine 10. These instruction codes
can implement the means that the machine 10 can carry-out the action.
[0021] The discussion and illustration of the zones or memories 66, 68, 70 described herein
are for example illustration of the layout of components and recordings of data. These
zones or memories 66, 68, 70 can be unified or distributed according to constraints
of size of the database and/or the speed of the processing operations desired.
[0022] One embodiment of the program memory 66 includes a zone 71 of instruction code to
receive a movement signal corresponding to the activation of the position controls
(e.g., buttons, touch-screen, toggle, joystick, etc.) 72 of the mobile device 22 or
on the X-ray machine 10. The position controls 72 can also be part of a remote control
unit 73.
[0023] A zone 74 can comprise instruction code to extract, from the data memory 68, the
coordinates of the position to be attained by the X-ray machine 10, on the basis of
the received signal described above with respect to zone 70.
[0024] The zone 74 of instruction code can be in communication with or command a navigation
system 78 in order to determine the coordinates of the current position of the X-ray
machine 10. The navigation system 78 can comprise manual position controls 72 to control
movement of the mobile device 22 and/or the drive system of the arm 14 of the X-ray
machine 10. One embodiment of the position controls 72 can control movement of the
mobile device 22 in various directions (e.g., forward, backward, leftward or rightward)
as well as control similar shifts to image acquisition (e.g., panoramic view, horizontal,
vertical and zooming). The navigation system 78 can be operable to convert a shift
or movement of the position controls 72 into electrical signals that can be interpreted
by the control unit 60 of the mobile device 22. The joystick 79 can thus control movement
of the mobile device 22 in a pre-programmed trajectory desired by the operator.
[0025] A zone 80 can comprise instruction code to command the navigation system 78 in order
to establish a path of movement, from the current position and from the position to
be attained of the x-ray machine 10.
[0026] A zone 82 can comprise instruction code to command operation, activation, working,
or movement of the drive 50.
[0027] A zone 84 can comprise instruction code to receive a work orientation signal for
the arm 14 of the X-ray machine 10 corresponding to the actuation of the orientation
commands for image acquisition of the patient 8. These orientation and position commands
can be distinct.
[0028] A zone 86 can comprise instruction code to command movement of the X-ray machine
10 moving parts, including the arm 14, the rotating arm 26, the support element 15
and/or the roller system 40. The movement of these parts 14, 24, 26, 40, as a function
of the orientation signal, can be done such that the region of interest of the patient
8 to be imaged remains positioned within the X-ray beam 20.
[0029] An embodiment of the data memory 68, 70 can include predetermined parking and working
positions. A parking position can be a place or location where the X-ray machine 10
can be positioned when in parking or idle mode outside a restricted space needed for
a medical procedure. A working position can be a place or location where the X-ray
machine 10 to perform image acquisition of the patient 8. One example of the data
memory 68, 70 can be structured in a table format of rows and columns, where each
row corresponds to the coordinates of a position of the X-ray machine 10 and each
column corresponds to a piece of information on this position of the X-ray machine
10. For example, a row can correspond to the coordinates of a predetermined working
position or parking position of the X-ray machine 10 and a column can correspond to
a shift signal associated with the actuation of a given positional command of the
X-ray machine 10.
[0030] The data memory 68, 70 can also include predetermined working orientations for the
moving parts 14, 24, 26 of the X-ray machine 10 or the roller system 40. A working
orientation can be a configuration of the X-ray machine 10 where the arm 14, the support
element 24, the rotating arm 26, and the roller system 40 can shift or move into a
radiography position according to the orientation signal. This shift may not affect
the position of the region of interest of the patient 8 to be examined relative to
the X-ray beam 20.
[0031] An embodiment of the data memory 68, 70 can be structured in a table format of rows
and columns, where each row corresponds to a working orientation of the moving parts
14, 24, 26 or 40 of the X-ray machine 10 and each column corresponds to a piece of
information on this orientation. For example, rows can correspond to the movements
to be made by each moving part 14, 24, 26, or 40 and columns can correspond to movement
signals associated with the actuation of a given orientation command of the X-ray
machine 10. The positional and orientation command may be actuated simultaneously
or consecutively.
[0032] Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of a method 100 of the subject matter herein. A first
preliminary step 104 can include putting the X-ray machine 10 in a standby mode. Step
106 can include receiving a positional or orientation command of the X-ray machine
10.
[0033] Step 108 can include identifying the type of acquired signal (e.g., positioning signal).
Step 109 can include computing a path to place the X-ray machine 10 in the desired
position per the received positional signal in step 106. To achieve this end, the
control unit 60 can activate the navigation system to: compute the current position
of the X-ray machine 10; compute an optimum or pre-programmed trajectory between the
current position and the coordinates contained in the positional signal received in
step 106; and guide movement of the X-ray machine 10 by reference to this path.
[0034] In one embodiment, the navigation system 78 can include a wireless communication
or tracking system (e.g., including an antenna, transceiver, receiver, emitter or
transmitter or combination thereof) 110 in wireless communication or link (e.g., global
satellite positioning (GPS), radio frequency, infrared, optical recognition of bar
codes or shapes, ultrasound, electromagnetism, etc.) 111 with various stationary receivers
or transmitters having either a unique identification code or positional coordinate.
The stationary receivers or transmitters may be positioned at a height and/or on the
ground and/or on the ceiling or on the table 34.
[0035] For example, the navigation system 78 can include wireless tags (e.g., electromagnetic,
radio frequency, ultrasonic, infrared, optical, etc.) 112 provided with a battery
that gives them the energy needed to transmit a low frequency, medium frequency or
high frequency signal over a distance (e.g., from one centimeter to a few centimeters).
Wireless tags 112 may be autonomous from an energy point of view to activate in response
to a variable electromagnetic or radiofrequency signal.
[0036] The navigation system 78 can be generally operable to exchange or compute position
coordinates of the X-ray machine 10 relative to predefined path or trajectory. On
the basis of the position coordinates, the navigation system 78 can compute a current
position and compute a trajectory or path or correction thereof relative to the predefined
trajectory.
[0037] One example of the navigation system 78 can include optical readers operable to read
or decode barcodes (e.g., two-dimensional) 114 representative of two-dimensional coordinates
of their position in the environment (e.g., on the ground of the room 12 and/or on
the ceiling or on the table 34) of the X-ray machine 10. The navigation system 78
can include an optical reader designed to decode the information contained in the
barcodes. The optical reader can be placed beneath the mobile device 22 facing the
ground and/or above the mobile device 22 facing the ceiling or in any variant facing
direction therebetween so as to detect and read the bar code. From the coordinates
of the position of the barcode 114, the navigation system 78 can compute the current
position and compute a trajectory and corrects the trajectory of the X-ray machine
10 or mobile device 22 relative to a preliminarily computed or pre-programmed trajectory.
[0038] In another embodiment, the navigation system 78 can be in communication with a GPS
or global positioning system 116 so as to be operable to compute the current position
of the X-ray machine 10, its trajectory or path, or its the pre-programmed trajectory.
[0039] Another example of the navigation system 78 can include a system 118 of optical or
laser emitter and/or detectors operable to perform general real-time tracking of position
and updated path or trajectory or correction thereof to locate X-ray machine 10 supported
on the mobile device 22. The system 118 of laser emitters and/or detectors can be
located at one or stationary locations in communication with the navigation system
78 of the X-ray machine 10 or mobile device 22. In response to receiving a positioning
signal according to a predefined trajectory or manual input, the navigation system
78 can activate emission of a laser beam and measurement the duration between the
incident laser beam and the reflected laser beam. Based on the measured duration,
the navigation system 78 can compute the current position of the X-ray machine 10
or mobile device 22 relative to an optimal or pre-programmed trajectory, and can generate
signals to steer the mobile device 22 relative to the optimal or preprogrammed trajectory
or path, and adjustments thereto accordingly. An embodiment of the system 118, the
wireless tracking system 110 can be a laser emitter mounted on the mobile device 22
or system 5. The laser emitter 110 can rotate and measure the distance between the
system 5 and one or more the reflectors stationed at the walls of the room.
[0040] In another embodiment, the navigation system 78 can include an electromagnetic field
link 120 to define the path or trajectory of the X-ray machine 10 or mobile device
22. The navigation system 78 can detect the position of the X-ray machine 10 and/or
mobile device 22 dependent on the electromagnetic filed link 120 to steer the path
or trajectory of the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22 relative to a pre-computed
or pre-programmed trajectory or path.
[0041] In another embodiment, the navigation system 78 can include an optical guidance system
122 having longitudinal markings that constitute a reference for the trajectory of
the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22. The optical guidance system 122 can
include a camera or similar device at the forward part of the mobile device 22 to
form an image of the path of the mobile device 22 or X-ray machine 10. Depending on
the data communicated from the optical guidance system 122 to the control unit 60,
the control unit 60 can compute the position of the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile
device 22 and correct the trajectory or path relative to a pre-computed or pre-programmed
trajectory.
[0042] Another embodiment of the optical guidance system 122 can include at least one camera
in communication with the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22 from a stationary
position in the room 12. The control unit 60 can be operable to process acquired data
from the optical guidance system 122 and compute an environment or landscape with
a predetermined vicinity or threshold of the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device
22, including detection of potential obstacles. The control unit 60 can compute the
position or location of the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22 and correct its
trajectory relative to a pre-computed or pre-programmed trajectory.
[0043] In another embodiment, the navigation system 78 can include sensors (e.g., accelerometers)
124 capable of measuring a direction and/or magnitude of shift or movement) of the
X-ray machine 10 and/or roller system 40 of the mobile device 22. Based on these acquired
measurements, the control unit 60 can use odometry techniques to compute the position
of the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22. Starting from a known initial position
and computing the measured movements, the control unit 60 can compute the current
position of the X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22. Depending on the result
of this computation, the control unit 60 can correct the trajectory or path of the
X-ray machine 10 and/or mobile device 22 relative to a trajectory a pre-computed or
pre-programmed trajectory.
[0044] In another embodiment, the data memory 68, 70 can include information on a mapping
of the environment of the X-ray machine 10, the mapping including reference coordinates
of a predefined parking position of the X-ray machine 10.
[0045] Fig. 5 describes another embodiment of the mobile device 22 of the X-ray machine
10 connected by a mechanical linkage 130 to a stationary platform (e.g., the ceiling
or to the walls of the room 12) 132. One example of the mechanical linkage 130 can
include a first arm 134 connected by a first hinge device 136 to the mobile device
22. This first arm 134 can be connected to a second arm 138 by a second hinge device
140. The number of arms and hinges can vary. This second arm 138 can be coupled 10
the hinge device 132 at the mobile device 22. The mechanical linkage 130 of hinged
arms 134, 138 can include encoders (not shown) operable to convert detected mechanical
movement of the arms 134, 138 into a numerical variable and communicate to the control
unit 60, and the control unit 60 can combine the tracked angular position of the different
encoders to guide or steer movement of the mobile device 22.
[0046] One or more of the above embodiments of the navigation system 78 or components thereof
may be combined with others to refine the computation precision. The type of navigation
system 78 can vary.
[0047] Step 150 can include communicating movement instructions to the drive of the mobile
device 22. Step 152 can include controlling steering or guiding movement of the drive
of the mobile device 22 through the pre-determined trajectory. The control unit 60
can steer or guide movement of the X-ray machine 10 via the mobile device 22 from
a starting point to a position controlled by determining the position, the trajectory
or pre-programmed trajectory, corrected if necessary, and cause corrections or changes
in guidance with reference to this trajectory.
[0048] If the control unit 60 detects in step 108 that the type of received command signal
is a navigation or an orientation signal, the control unit 60 can execute the following.
Before processing the received orientation signal, step 155 can include computing
if one or more of the above steps are being executed. If this is the case, step 156
can include storing or causing the navigation or orientation signal to sit idle without
further processing. Step 158 can include computing a check as to whether the execution
of one or more of the above steps is terminated in order to authorize the processing
of the navigation or orientation signal. If no detection of execution of one or more
of the above steps, step 160 includes authorizing further processing of this navigation
or orientation signal.
[0049] Step 162 can include causing movement of the navigation or orientation of one or
more of the arm 14, the support element 24, the rotating arm 26 and/or the roller
system 40 to correspond to instruction in the navigation or orientation signal so
as to position the X-ray beam 20 in a desired direction to perform image acquisition
of the desired region of interest of the patient 8.
[0050] In the event of receiving a new orientation command, the control unit 60 can steer
movement of the arm 14, the support element 24, the rotating arm 26, and/or the roller
system 40 in a controlled manner and at a desired navigation or orientation while
at the same time keeping X-ray beam 20 in the region of interest to be examined.
[0051] A technical effect of the subject matter described herein is to enhance changes in
image acquisition with changes to the region of interest to be examined by moving
the X-ray machine 10 via the roller system 40 of the mobile device 22 from one working
position to another.
[0052] Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate schematic diagrams of an imaging system 305 supported by
an embodiment of the mobile carriage or platform or device 310, similar to the imaging
system 5 supported on the mobile device 22 described above, in combination with a
brake system 320 of the subject matter described herein.
[0053] The mobile device 310 generally includes a chassis or frame 325 in support of a motorized
drive 330 to move one or more wheels 335 in mobile support of the chassis 325. The
chassis 325 generally comprises a structural framework to support the imaging system
305 on the series of wheels 335. The motorized drive (e.g., electric motor, pneumatic
motor, hydraulic motor, etc.) 330 can be generally configured to move the wheels 335
in support of the imaging system 305 on the chassis 325.
[0054] The brake system 320 according to the invention includes a vacuum operated portion
having a vacuum pump 340, tank 342 and valve 344 in communication with a vacuum clamp
(e.g., suction cup) 354 attached at the mobile device 310. The tank 342 can be in
communication to provide a buffer reservoir of vacuum to more quickly create the vacuum
force at the clamp 354. An embodiment of the vacuum clamp 354 can include a seal portion
356. With the seal portion 356 of the vacuum clamp 354 engaged against the floor,
operation of the vacuum pump 340 can create a vacuum between the vacuum clamp 354
and the floor in restraint of movement of the mobile device 310 and imaging system
305 supported thereon.
[0055] The valve 344 can be generally located in communication between the tank 342 and
the vacuum clamp 354. In a first position, the valve 344 can be operable to communicate
the vacuum from the tank 342 to the vacuum clamp 354. In a second position, the valve
can be generally operable to communicate the vacuum clamp 354 to atmosphere so as
release the vacuum force at the clamp 354.
[0056] The embodiment of the brake system 320 can further include a motorized drive (e.g.,
electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, etc.) 365 operable to raise and lower the chassis
325 with respect to the wheel 335. The brake system 320 can include brake pads 370
operable to engage or contact the wheels 335 to restrain movement thereof when the
motorized drive 365 lowers the chassis 325 with respect to the wheels 335. Lowering
the chassis 325 such that the brake pads 370 engage in contact against the wheels
335 can also be configured to cause the vacuum clamp 354 to engage or contact the
floor 375 or attachment thereto. With lowering of the chassis 325 such that the vacuum
clamp 354 can be in contact with the floor, the force of the vacuum at the vacuum
clamp 354 against the floor in combination with the force of restraint of the brake
pad against the wheels 335 can work independently or in combination to restrain movement
of the chassis 325 of the mobile device 310 and imaging system 305 supported thereon.
[0057] Fig. 8 illustrates the imaging system 305 supported by the mobile carriage or platform
or device 310 in combination with a braking system 380 in accordance with the subject
matter described herein, the braking system 380 in a release state. The braking system
380 includes a vacuum pump 382 in communication with a vacuum clamp 384, a tank 386
and a valve 388 therebetween, similar in function and operation as the vacuum pump
340, tank 342, valve 344, and vacuum clamp 354 as described above in Figs. 6 and 7.
The braking system 380 also includes a spring 390 bias of the vacuum clamp 384 to
a raised position spaced at least a threshold distance to avoid interference of maneuvering
of the mobile device 310.
[0058] Electrical power to or operation of the vacuum pump 382 can generate the vacuum at
the tank 386. In response to an electrical signal, movement of the valve 384 to a
first position can communicate the vacuum at the tank 386 so to cause the vacuum clamp
384 to engage or contact the floor and create the vacuum between the clamp 384 and
the floor in restraint of movement of the mobile device 310 with respect to the floor
375. Upon interruption of electrical power to or operation of the vacuum to otherwise
release of the vacuum at the vacuum clamp 384, the spring (e.g., compression spring
or tension spring) 390 can bias the vacuum clamp 384 away from the floor to create
the threshold spacing between the braking system 380 and the floor 375 to avoid interference
with movement of the mobile device 310. According to another embodiment, an electrical
signal to the valve 388 can cause the release of the vacuum at the clamp 384 to the
atmosphere.
[0059] According to one embodiment, the spring 390 can be interconnected by a structural
support 392 to the vacuum clamp 384. The spring 390 can be located between the structural
support 392 and the chassis 325. Movement of the structural support 392 can be limited
to a predefined displacement by contact with the chassis 325. The chassis 325 can
include slots 394 to receive the spring 390 in bias against downward movement of the
structural support 392. The spring 390 can be in tension and located above the structural
support 392, or can be in compression and located below the structural support 392,
so as to bias against downward movement of the vacuum clamp 384 toward the floor 375.
[0060] Having generally provided the above-description of a construction of the embodiment
the system 300 having the mobile device 310 in combination with the brake system 320,
380 of the subject matter described herein, the following is a general description
of a method 400 (See Fig. 10) of operation of the brake system 320, 380 in selective
restraint of movement of the mobile device 310 in support of the imaging system 305.
It should also be understood that the sequence or succession of the acts or steps
of the method 400 as described in the foregoing description can vary. Also, it should
be understood that the method 400 may not require each act or step in the foregoing
description, or may include additional acts or steps not disclosed herein. One or
more of following steps and acts of the method 400 can also be in the form of a computer
program product 401 having modules or zones or computer-readable program instructions
that can be stored on a computer readable medium or memory 402 for execution by a
processor 403 of a controller or control unit or other computer programmable device
404, and which can be located or be integral at least in part with the program memory
66 in communication with the processor 64 of the control unit 60 described above or
the imaging system 305 or remote unit 73 or be independent thereof.
[0061] Assume for sake of example that the mobile device 310 and the imaging system 305
supported thereon are located in a parked or stored position, and that the mobile
device 310 is robotically operated and remotely or wireless controlled from a remote
unit 396. The chassis 325 can be in a lowered position so that the brake pads 370
are engaged to restrain movement of the wheels 335. Although not required, the vacuum
can also be maintained by the vacuum pump 382 at the vacuum clamp 384 in restraint
of movement of the mobile device 310 at the stowed or parked position. Also assume
that instructions to perform one or more of the following steps can be received via
wireless communication from the remote unit 385 to the mobile device 310.
[0062] Referring to Fig. 9, step 410 can include releasing restraint of movement of the
mobile device 310. This step 410 can include interrupting electric power to or operation
of the vacuum pump 382 so as to release the vacuum between the vacuum clamp 384 and
the floor. Release of the vacuum can cause the spring 390 to bias and raise the vacuum
clamp 384 from the floor. Step 410 can further include energizing the motorized drive
365 to raise or lift the chassis 325 and imaging system 305 supported thereon with
respect to the wheels 335 so as to free movement of the wheels 335.
[0063] Step 415 can include instructing the motorized drive 330 to steer movement of the
mobile device 310 in support of the imaging system 305 to a desired position with
respect to the plate or insert 372 adjacent the table 34 for image acquisition of
the subject 8. An embodiment of step 415 can include communicating instructions for
the motorized drive 365 to steer the mobile device 310 and supported imaging system
305 to predefined locations and alignments with respect to the plate or inserts 372
according to a pre-defined type and/or body area and/or protocol of image acquisition
to perform on the subject 8. Also, the mobile device 310 can receive manual instructions
(e.g., via joystick) to selectively supplement movement of the mobile device 310 to
the desired location.
[0064] Step 420 can include receiving feedback that the mobile device 310 and imaging system
305 are located at the desired alignment and location with respect to the patient
support table 34 to perform image acquisition.
[0065] Step 425 can include applying the braking force to the mobile device 310. One embodiment
of step 425 can include instructing the motorized drive 365 to lower the chassis 325
with respect to the wheels 335 so as to engage the brake pads 370 in contact with
respect to the wheels 335 in restraint of movement of the mobile device 310. Step
425 can further include lowering the vacuum clamp 384 in contact or engagement with
the floor 375.
[0066] Step 430 includes communicating electrical power to energize the vacuum pump 382
to generate a vacuum at the vacuum clamp 384 so as to cause the vacuum clamp 384 to
engage against the floor against the bias of the spring 390. Step 430 can further
include communicating an electrical signal to the valve so as to communicate the vacuum
at the tank 386 to the clamp 384, so as to create a faster response to create a brake
force. The restraint of the vacuum at the vacuum clamp 384 relative to the floor in
combination with the location and brake force applied by the brake pads 370 at the
wheels 335 of the chassis 325 can restrain vibration or tilting of the imaging system
305 in performing image acquisition (e.g., including during high-speed acceleration
and deceleration in positioning the C-arm 14 (See Fig. 1) or for three-dimensional
image acquisition).
[0067] Step 435 can include detecting completion of image acquisition at the present location
of the mobile device 310 and imaging system 305.
[0068] Step 440 can include interrupting electric power to or operation of the vacuum pump
or release of the vacuum generated at the vacuum clamp 384 so as to release restraint
of movement of the vacuum clamp 384 relative to the floor. Step 440 can include communicating
a signal to the valve 388 so as move to the second position and release the vacuum
at the vacuum clamp 384 to the atmosphere.
[0069] Step 445 can include lifting the chassis with respect to the wheels 335 so as to
remove restraint of the mobile device 310.
[0070] Step 450 can include repeating the above-described steps 410 through 445 in performing
addition image acquisition at other selected locations around the periphery of the
patient support table 34.
[0071] Step 455 can include receiving instructions to move the mobile device 310 and imaging
system 305 supported thereon to the parked or stowed position.
[0072] Step 460 can include restraining movement of the mobile device 310, including lowering
the chassis 325 so as to engage or contact the brake pads 370 in restraint of movement
of the wheels 335 at the stowed position.
[0073] One or move of the above-described steps of the method 400 can be according to a
pre-programmed protocol selected from a plurality of image acquisition protocols or
therapeutic protocols dependent on an input or desired diagnosis received at the system
5. The preprogrammed protocol can include automatically causing application of the
brake force by the brake system 320, 380 of the mobile device 310 in response to detecting
proper alignment/position of the system 305 so as to ready for image acquisition.
Likewise, the preprogrammed protocol can include causing automatic release of the
brake force by the brake system 320, 380 in response to detecting complete of image
acquisition at the current alignment/position.
[0074] Although the above description of the systems 5, 300 and method 400 are described
with respect to image acquisition of the subject 8 supported on table 34, it should
be understood that the mobile device 310 and imaging system 10, 305 supported thereon
can be employed in a variety of applications (e.g., airport screening, industrial
or commercial applications, etc.) and is not limiting on the subject matter described
herein.
[0075] Although the above description of the systems 5, 300 and method 400 are described
with respect to image acquisition of the subject 8 supported on table 34, it should
be understood that the mobile device 310 and imaging system 305 supported thereon
can be employed in a variety of applications (e.g., airport screening, industrial
or commercial applications, etc.) and is not limiting on the subject matter described
herein.
[0076] A technical effect of the above-described system 5 and 300 and method 400 includes
providing force to restrain movement of the imaging system 10, 305 during image acquisition.
The brake system 320, 380 increases the stability reduces risk of tilting or vibration
of the imaging system 10, 305 during image acquisition that if otherwise uncontrolled
may affect image quality and increase risk to safety of personnel or the imaged subject
8.
[0077] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the preferred
mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention.
The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other
examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended
to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not
differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural
elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
1. A method of mobile image acquisition of a subject (8), the method comprising the steps
of:
providing an imaging system (5, 305) supported on a mobile device (18, 310) so as
to steer movement of the imaging system across a floor;
releasing restraint of movement of the mobile device (18, 310);
instructing movement of the mobile device (18, 310) in support of the imaging system
(5, 305) to a first position for image acquisition of the subject;
receiving feedback that the mobile device (18, 310) is located at the first position;
characterised in
applying a brake force to restrain movement of the mobile device (18, 310) wherein
the step of applying the brake force includes creating a vacuum in restraint of movement
of the mobile device relative to the floor;
wherein the step of applying the brake force further includes communicating electrical
power to a vacuum pump (340, 382) so as to generate the vacuum between a vacuum clamp
(354, 384) attached at the mobile device (18, 310) and the floor in restraint of movement
of the mobile device with respect to the floor;
wherein a tank (342, 386) and a valve (344, 388) are located between communication
of the vacuum pump (340, 382) to the vacuum clamp (354, 384), the method further including
the step of moving a position of a valve to a first position to communicate the vacuum
from the tank to the vacuum clamp; and
wherein upon release of the vacuum by the valve (344, 388) to atmosphere, a spring
bias moves the vacuum clamp (354, 384) away from the floor.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of applying the brake force further includes
lowering the chassis (325) with respect to the wheels (335) so as to engage a brake
pad in contact with the wheel.
3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, the method further including the step of communicating
an electrical signal to the valve (344, 388) so as to release the vacuum at the clamp
(354, 384) to atmosphere in response to detecting completion of image acquisition
at the first position of the mobile device.
4. The method of any preceding claim, further including lowering the chassis (325) so
as to lower the vacuum clamp (354, 384) attached at the mobile device (18, 310) in
contact with the floor.
5. The method of claim 4, further including lifting the chassis (325) with respect to
the wheels (335) so as to remove restraint of the wheels of the mobile device in response
to detecting release of the vacuum to atmosphere.
6. A system (5, 305) to perform image acquisition of a subject (8), comprising:
an imaging system (5, 305) operable to perform image acquisition of the subject;
a mobile device (18, 310) operable to move the image system across a floor;
a brake system that restrains movement of the mobile device with respect to the floor;
a controller (60) in communication with the imaging system, the mobile device, and
the brake system, the controller including a memory having a plurality of program
instructions to instruct a processor to perform the steps of:
instructing movement of the mobile device (18, 310) in support of the imaging system
to a first position for image acquisition of the subject (8);
receiving feedback that the mobile device is located at the first position;
characterised in
applying a brake force to restrain movement of the mobile device (18, 310), wherein
the step of applying the brake force includes creating a vacuum in restraint of movement
of the mobile device relative to the floor;
wherein program instructions to instruct the processor to perform the step of applying
the brake force further includes communicating electrical power to a vacuum pump (340,
382) to generate a vacuum in restraint of movement of the mobile device (18, 310)
with respect to the floor;
the brake system further comprising a tank (342, 386) and a valve (344, 388) located
in communication between the vacuum pump (340, 382) and a vacuum claimp (354, 384),
and further comprising program instructions to instruct a process to perform the step
of moving a position of the valve to a first position to communicate the vacuum from
the tank to the vacuum clamp, wherein upon release of the vacuum by the valve (344,
388) to atmosphere, a spring bias moves the vacuum clamp (354, 384) away from the
floor.
7. The system (5, 305) of claim 6, wherein program instructions to instruct the processor
to perform the step of applying the brake force further includes lowering the chassis
(325) with respect to the wheels (335) so as to engage a brake pad in contact with
the wheel.
8. The system (5, 305) of claim 6 or claim 7, further comprising program instructions
to instruct the processor to perform the step of lowering the chassis (325) so as
to lower the vacuum clamp (354, 384) attached at the mobile device in contact with
the floor.
9. The system (5, 305) of any of claims 6 to 8, further comprising program instructions
to instruct the processor to perform the step of causing the release of the vacuum
at the vacuum clamp (354, 384) to atmosphere in response to detecting completion of
image acquisition at the first position of the mobile device (18, 310).
1. Verfahren zur mobilen Bilderfassung einer Person (8), wobei das Verfahren die folgenden
Schritte umfasst:
Bereitstellen eines Bildgebungssystems (5, 305), das auf einer mobilen Vorrichtung
(18, 310) montiert ist, um so die Bewegung des Bildgebungssystems über einen Fußboden
zu steuern;
Freigegeben der Bewegungseinschränkung der mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310), Anweisung
von Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310) zugunsten des Bildgebungssystems (5,
305) zu einer ersten Position für die Bilderfassung der Person;
Empfangen von Rückmeldung, dass die mobile Vorrichtung (18, 310) sich in der ersten
Position befindet;
gekennzeichnet durch
Anwenden einer Bremskraft, um die Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310) zu beschränken,
wobei
der Schritt des Anwendens der Bremskraft das Erzeugen eines Vakuums zur Beschränkung
der Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung gegenüber dem Fußboden umfasst;
wobei der Schritt des Anwendens der Bremskraft ferner das Übertragen von elektrischer
Energie auf eine Vakuumpumpe (340, 382) umfasst, um so das Vakuum zwischen einer Vakuumklemme
(354, 384), die an der mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310) befestigt ist, und dem Fußboden
zur Beschränkung der Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung gegenüber dem Fußboden zu erzeugen;
wobei ein Tank (342, 386) und ein Ventil (344, 388) sich zwischen der Verbindung der
Vakuumpumpe (340, 382) und der Vakuumklemme (354, 384) befindet, wobei das Verfahren
ferner den Schritt des Bewegens einer Position eines Ventils in eine erste Position
umfasst, um das Vakuum aus dem Tank zur Vakuumklemme zu übertragen; und
wobei bei Freigabe des Vakuums durch das Ventil (344, 388) an die Atmosphäre eine Federvorspannung die Vakuumklemme (354,
384) weg vom Fußboden bewegt.
2. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Schritt des Anwendens der Bremskraft ferner das
Absenken des Chassis (325) gegenüber den Rädern (335) umfasst, um so einen Bremsklotz
in Kontakt mit dem Rad zu bringen.
3. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei das Verfahren ferner den Schritt des Übertragens
eines elektrischen Signals an das Ventil (344, 388) umfasst, um so das Vakuum an der
Klemme (354, 384) als Reaktion auf das Feststellen des Abschlusses der Bilderfassung
in der ersten Position der mobilen Vorrichtung in die Atmosphäre zu entlassen.
4. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, das ferner das Absenken des Chassis
(325) umfasst, um so die Vakuumklemme (354, 384), die an der mobilen Vorrichtung (18,
310) befestigt ist, in Kontakt mit dem Fußboden abzusenken.
5. Verfahren nach Anspruch 4, das ferner das Anheben des Chassis (325) gegenüber den
Rädern (335) umfasst, um so die Einschränkung der Räder der mobilen Vorrichtung als
Reaktion auf das Feststellen der Freisetzung des Vakuums in die Atmosphäre zu beseitigen.
6. System (5, 305) zum Ausführen der Bilderfassung einer Person (8), umfassend:
ein Bildgebungssystem (5, 305), das zum Ausführen der Bilderfassung der Person betrieben
werden kann;
eine mobile Vorrichtung (18, 310), die zum Bewegen des Bildgebungssystems über den
Fußboden betrieben werden kann;
ein Bremssystem, das die Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung gegenüber dem Fußboden einschränkt;
einen Controller (60) in Kommunikation mit dem Bildgebungssystem, der mobilen Vorrichtung
und dem Bremssystem, wobei der Controller einen Speicher umfasst, der mehrere Programmanweisungen
hat, um einen Prozessor anzuweisen, die folgenden Schritte auszuführen:
Anweisen von Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310) zur Unterstützung des Bildgebungssystems
in eine erste Position für die Bilderfassung der Person (8);
Empfangen von Rückmeldung, dass die mobile Vorrichtung sich in der ersten Position
befindet;
gekennzeichnet durch
Anwenden einer Bremskraft, um die Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310) zu beschränken,
wobei
der Schritt des Anwendens der Bremskraft das Erzeugen eines Vakuums zur Beschränkung
der Bewegung der mobilen Vorrichtung gegenüber dem Fußboden umfasst;
wobei die Programmanweisungen zum Anweisen des Prozessors, den Schritt der Anwendung
der Bremskraft auszuführen, ferner das Übermitteln von elektrischer Energie an eine
Vakuumpumpe (340, 382) umfasst, um ein Vakuum zur Beschränkung der Bewegung der mobilen
Vorrichtung (18, 310) gegenüber dem Fußboden zu erzeugen;
wobei das Bremssystem ferner einen Tank (342, 386) und ein Ventil (344, 388) umfasst,
die in Kommunikation zwischen der Vakuumpumpe (340, 382) und einer Vakuumklemme (354,
384) befinden,
und
ferner Programmanweisungen umfasst, um einen Prozess anzuweisen, den Schritt des Bewegung
einer Position des Ventils in eine erste Position auszuführen, um das Vakuum vom Tank
auf die Vakuumklemme zu übertragen, wobei bei Freisetzung des Vakuums durch das Ventil (344, 388) in die Atmosphäre eine Federvorspannung die Vakuumklemme (354,
384) weg vom Fußboden bewegt.
7. System (5, 305) nach Anspruch 6, wobei Programmanweisungen zum Anweisen des Prozessors,
den Schritt der Anwendung der Bremskraft auszuführen, ferner das Absenken des Chassis
(325) gegenüber den Rädern (335) umfasst, um so einen Bremsklotz in Kontakt mit dem
Rad zu bringen.
8. System (5, 305) nach Anspruch 6 oder 7, das ferner Programmanweisungen umfasst, um
den Prozessor anzuweisen, den Schritt des Absenkens des Chassis (325) auszuführen,
um so die Vakuumklemme (354, 384), die an der mobilen Vorrichtung befestigt ist, in
Kontakt mit dem Fußboden abzusenken.
9. System (5, 305) nach einem der Ansprüche 6 bis 8, dass ferner Programmanweisungen
umfasst, um den Prozessor anzuweisen, den Schritt des Bewirkens der Freisetzung des
Vakuums an der Vakuumklemme (354, 384) in die Atmosphäre auszuführen, als Reaktion
auf die Feststellung des Abschlusses der Bilderfassung in der ersten Position der
mobilen Vorrichtung (18, 310).
1. Procédé d'acquisition d'image mobile d'un sujet (8), le procédé comprenant les étapes
consistant à :
fournir un système d'imagerie (5, 305) supporté sur un dispositif mobile (18, 310)
de manière à guider le mouvement du système d'imagerie en travers d'un plancher ;
libérer la retenue de mouvement du dispositif mobile (18, 310) ;
instruire le mouvement du dispositif mobile (18, 310) en support du système d'imagerie
(5, 305) à une première position pour l'acquisition d'image du sujet ;
recevoir un retour indiquant que le dispositif mobile (18, 310) est situé dans la
première position ;
caractérisé en ce que l'on applique une force de freinage pour retenir le mouvement du dispositif mobile
(18,310),
dans lequel l'étape d'application de la force de freinage comprend la création d'un
vide pour retenir le mouvement du dispositif mobile par rapport au plancher ;
dans lequel l'étape d'application de la force de freinage comprend en outre la communication
d'une énergie électrique à une pompe à vide (340, 382) de manière à générer le vide
entre un clamp à vide (354, 384) fixé au niveau du dispositif mobile (18, 310) et
le plancher pour retenir le mouvement du dispositif mobile par rapport au plancher
;
dans lequel un réservoir (342, 386) et une vanne (344, 388) sont situés dans la communication
de la pompe à vide (340, 382) avec le clamp à vide (354, 384), le procédé comprenant
en outre l'étape de déplacement d'une position d'une vanne à une première position
pour communiquer le vide du réservoir au clamp à vide ; et
dans lequel, lors de la libération du vide par la vanne (344, 388) dans l'atmosphère,
une sollicitation par un ressort écarte le clamp à vide (354, 384) du plancher.
2. Procédé selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'étape d'application de la force de
freinage comprend en outre l'abaissement du châssis (325) par rapport aux roues (335)
de manière à engager une plaquette de frein en contact avec la roue.
3. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2, le procédé comprenant en outre
l'étape de communication d'un signal électrique à la vanne (344, 388) de manière à
libérer le vide au niveau du clamp (354, 384) vers l'atmosphère en réponse à la détection
de l'achèvement de l'acquisition d'image dans la première position du dispositif mobile.
4. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comprenant en outre
l'abaissement du châssis (325) de manière à abaisser le clamp à vide (354, 384) fixé
sur le dispositif mobile (18, 310) en contact avec le plancher.
5. Procédé selon la revendication 4, comprenant en outre le soulèvement du châssis (325)
par rapport aux roues (335) de manière à éliminer la retenue des roues du dispositif
mobile en réponse à la détection de la libération du vide vers l'atmosphère.
6. Système (5, 305) pour transformer une acquisition d'image d'un sujet (8), comprenant
:
un système d'imagerie (5, 305) qui est à même d'opérer pour effectuer une acquisition
d'image du sujet ;
un dispositif mobile (18, 310) qui est à même d'opérer pour déplacer le système d'imagerie
en travers d'un plancher ;
un système de freinage qui retient le déplacement du dispositif mobile par rapport
au plancher ;
un régulateur (60) en communication avec le système d'imagerie, le dispositif mobile
et le système de freinage, le régulateur comprenant une mémoire ayant une pluralité
d'instructions de programmation pour instruire un processeur d'effectuer les étapes
consistant à :
instruire le mouvement du dispositif mobile (18, 310) en support du système d'imagerie
dans une première position pour l'acquisition d'image du sujet (8) ;
recevoir un retour indiquant que le dispositif mobile est situé dans la première position
;
caractérisé en ce que l'on applique une force de freinage pour retenir le mouvement du dispositif mobile
(18, 310),
dans lequel l'étape d'application de la force de freinage comprend la création d'un
vide afin de retenir le mouvement du dispositif mobile par rapport au plancher ;
dans lequel des instructions de programmation pour instruire le processus d'effectuer
l'étape d'application de la force de freinage comprennent en outre une communication
d'énergie électrique à une pompe à vide (340, 382) pour générer un vide afin de retenir
le mouvement du dispositif mobile (18, 310) par rapport au plancher ;
le système de freinage comprenant en outre un réservoir (342, 386) et une vanne (344,
388) situés en communication entre la pompe à vide (340, 382) et le clamp à vide (354,
384) et comprenant en outre des instructions de programmation pour instruire un procédé
d'effectuer l'étape de déplacement d'une position de la vanne à une première position
pour communiquer le vide du réservoir au clamp à vide, dans lequel, lors de la libération
du vide par la vanne (344, 388) dans l'atmosphère, une sollicitation élastique écarte
le clamp à vide (354, 384) du plancher.
7. Système (5, 305) selon la revendication 6, dans lequel les instructions de programmation
pour instruire le processus d'effectuer l'étape d'application de la force de freinage
comprennent en outre l'abaissement du châssis (325) par rapport aux roues (335) de
manière à engager une plaquette de frein en contact avec la roue.
8. Système (5, 305) selon la revendication 6 ou la revendication 7, comprenant en outre
des instructions de programmation pour instruire le processus afin qu'il effectue
l'étape d'abaissement du châssis (325) afin d'abaisser le clamp à vide (354, 384)
fixé sur le dispositif mobile en contact avec le plancher.
9. Système (5, 305) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 8, comprenant en outre
des instructions de programmation pour instruire le processeur d'effectuer l'étape
permettant d'assurer la libération du vide sur le clamp à vide (354, 384) vers l'atmosphère
en réponse à la détection de l'achèvement de l'acquisition d'image dans la première
position du dispositif mobile (18, 310).